Fair helps recruit new volunteers

Nearly 300 people came to find out how they could make a difference in the New Forest at the third annual volunteer.

Around 30 organisations attended
the event organised by the New Forest National Park Authority at Lyndhurst
Community Centre on Saturday (2 March).

Groups ranging from the Forestry Commission to the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air
Ambulance and the New Forest Centre chatted to
potential volunteers about how they could get involved.

People came from the New Forest,
and towns further afield such as Southampton, Romsey and Salisbury, with many
saying they wanted to try new skills, meet new people, improve their fitness
and give something back to the community.

Pat Wyeth, Member of the New
Forest National Park Authority, said: ‘Volunteers are the backbone of Britain
and we were delighted with the enthusiasm of people wanting to get involved.

‘The
feedback from organisations that came along has been extremely positive with nearly
100 volunteers signing up on the day. No-one need ever be short of something worthwhile to do as a
volunteer in the New Forest.’

Roger Leppard, Community and
Corporate Fundraiser, for the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Air Ambulance who
attended the event, added: ‘The Volunteer Fair is a great opportunity to meet
like-minded people and is great for our charity; we rely heavily on people’s
good will and support.

‘We have attended all three
volunteer fairs and have recruited many dedicated volunteers and supporters.’

Conserve and enhance the natural
beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the Park - Protect

Promote opportunities for understanding
and enjoyment of its special qualities – Enjoy.

We also have a duty to:

Seek to foster the social and economic well-being of local
communities within the Park – Prosper.

The New Forest National Park was designated in March 2005. Its
unique landscape has been shaped over the centuries by grazing ponies, cattle
and pigs which roam free. Majestic woodlands, rare heathland and a spectacular
coastline provide fabulous opportunities for quiet recreation, enjoyment and
discovery.